Robinhood is a commission-free brokerage that operates in the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom. It allows users to buy and sell stocks, options, and cryptocurrencies.
One of the main reasons Robinhood is popular among retail investors is that it offers commission-free trading, which means that users can buy and sell stocks without paying a fee for each trade. This is in contrast to traditional brokerages, which often charge a commission for each trade. This can make a big difference for investors who make a lot of trades, as the commissions can add up quickly.
Another reason Robinhood is popular is because it has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for people to buy and sell stocks. The app is available via the website, as well as both iOS and Android devices. And it allows users to track their investments, set up alerts, and make trades on the go.
Robinhood also offers educational resources for investors, such as articles and videos about investing, as well as a feature called "Robinhood Snacks," which provides daily news and analysis about the stock market.
In addition to stocks, Robinhood also allows users to trade options, which are contracts that give the holder the right (but not the obligation) to buy or sell a stock at a certain price within a certain time period. Options trading can be complex and carries additional risks, so it is important for investors to understand the risks and do their own research before trading options.
Finally, Robinhood also supports cryptocurrency trading, allowing users to buy and sell a variety of cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.
While Robinhood has gained popularity among retail investors, it has also faced controversy and criticism. In 2020, the company faced backlash for its decision to restrict the trading of certain stocks during the GameStop short squeeze, leading to investigations by the SEC and Congress. In 2021, the company faced criticism for its business practices, including treating customers and handling confidential information.
Overall, Robinhood is a popular brokerage that offers commission-free trading of stocks, options, and cryptocurrencies. While it has many features that appeal to retail investors, it is important for users to understand the risks and do their own research before investing.